Henryk Gronowski

Henryk Teodor Gronowski (born Heinrich Theodor Gruner; 9 March 1928 – 10 May 1977) was a Polish professional football player and manager. He spent the majority of his career with Lechia Gdańsk, before going on to have brief spells in management. His brother, Robert Gronowski was also a former professional footballer who played as a forward.

Early years

Having been born in Gliwice in 1928, which was then in Germany, Henryk was born as Henryk Gruner. He later changed his last name in 1949 to the more Polish sounding Gronowski.

Senior career

After World War II, Gronowski joined the newly established football team of his birth city Piast Gliwice, which had now been integrated into Poland. In 1949, Gronowski joined Lechia Gdańsk with his older brother, Robert. Gronowski spent a total of 12 seasons at Lechia, playing over 200 games in all competitions. In 1961, Gronowski moved to Australia to play for Polonia Melbourne and Polonia Sydney, teams created by Polish nationals who had moved to Australia. After two seasons away, Gronowski once again returned to Lechia Gdańsk and spent a further six years with the club. In total, Gronowski spent 18 seasons at Lechia and made 273 appearances in all competitions.

International career

On 3 November 1957, Gronowski played for Poland in what turned out to be his only international appearance. He played against Finland in a 4–0 win, keeping a clean sheet for his country.

Managerial career After his playing career had finished Gronowski fully went into management. He took charge firstly of Ogniwo Sopot, before going on to manage Gedania Gdańsk until his death in 1977.

Personal life

Gronowski is commemorated by a star at the MOSiR Stadium in Gdańsk. The "Avenue of Stars" commemorates the efforts and success of former players and coaches.